Why Every School Needs Access to a School Nurse

What does a school nurse actually do, and why does it matter? In this clip from Virtual Health Connections, Sheila Freed, BSN, RN, NCSN, Clinical Operations Director of School Health and Senior Care at Avel eCare, explains how virtual school nursing extends far beyond treating bumps and bruises. School nurses help review immunizations, develop care plans, train school staff, support students with chronic health conditions, and provide guidance that helps schools create a safer environment for every student. Sheila also shares how one North Dakota school district reduced chronic absenteeism by double digits after implementing virtual school nursing. By ensuring students were assessed by a nurse before being sent home, schools were able to identify underlying medical and behavioral health concerns, keep more students in class, and improve overall attendance. The conversation also highlights the critical role school nurses play in protecting students during emergencies. Sheila recounts the story of a young student who experienced a life threatening allergic reaction after a bee sting. Because a virtual school nurse recognized the warning signs and guided school staff through administering epinephrine while emergency responders were on the way, the student's life was saved. Whether a school has a full time nurse, a part time nurse, or no nurse at all, Avel eCare's School Health program provides experienced clinical support that helps schools improve student safety, reduce liability, support staff, and give parents greater confidence that their children are receiving the care they need throughout the school day.